Richmond City Council Approves Redskins Move to Richmond

Richmond, VA- After a lengthy and ongoing dispute, the Richmond City Council unanimously approved a budget plan that will bring the Washington Redskins Training Camp to Richmond next summer.

Two state of the art practice fields and a fitness center are expected to undergo construction behind the Science Museum of Richmond in early 2013. Much of the controversy around the potential relocation of the Redskins training facility centered around Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital’s desire to expand a medical building onto the Westhampton School property. Under the agreement, Bon Secours will finance the $6.4 million necessary to build the training camp, contribute $100,000 each year to Richmond Public Schools for 10 years, and will be required to allocate a specified number of days for Richmond Public School students to utilize the fields.

“I mean I’ve been a Redskins fan for the past 14 years, and I’m really excited that they [Redskins] decided to make their training camp setting behind the Richmond Science Museum,” said Richmond local Patrick Sandberg.

Since Richmond is typically recognized as the home of many burgundy and gold fans, it’s no wonder there is a sense of excitement and optimism. However, not everyone is on the same page.

“I really think the Redskins training camp is going to cost taxpayers a lot of money,” said James Carter, a Henrico resident.

There is no indication of a higher tax rate among Richmond residents, but with the cost of the facility, it has some people wondering whether the financing will affect their wallets.

Despite varying opinions on the Redskins training camp relocation, it’s certainly a step forward to improve the city’s overall image and a potential opportunity to stimulate tourism and the local economy.

For more information on the training camp, as well as images of the Washington Redskins Training Camp construction plans, please visit: